Man Utd star with only 98 minutes played all season pictured in first-team training, his timing is perfect

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United held open training on Wednesday ahead of the Europa League league phase’s conclusion on Thursday against FCSB.

Ruben Amorim will be very excited by the expected arrival of Patrick Dorgu from Lecce this week, however, he must remain focused on the task at hand.

Dorgu will arrive in Manchester on Wednesday, but all of Amorim’s focus will be on winning in Romania on Thursday and guaranteeing a round-of-16 spot – skipping the play-off stage altogether.

Amorim has suggested the Europa League is harder to win than the Champions League, and so getting that extra step closer while also getting a week off will be vital for Manchester United.

So it was no surprise to see a very strong group deployed in training on Wednesday, before heading to Romania for the league phase decider.

• READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfer deals for January 2025, ins, outs, loan moves, deadline date

Luke Shaw returns to Manchester United training

United currently sit fourth in the table, unbeaten and one point from securing that coveted top-eight finish. Now, Amorim’s chances have been boosted by the return of Luke Shaw to first-team training.

The training was broadcast live on MUTV and within the group, the 29-year-old was spotted for the first time since early December – meaning he has missed 14 games.

Shaw was going through the gears in the open training session, with Marcus Rashford also involved despite the persistent rumours around his exit.

The inclusion of Shaw however was a significant surprise considering he has missed a whopping 156 days through injury this season, making just three appearances which amounted to 98 minutes.

Shaw returning on this particular day is the perfect timing for him – considering the transfer business United are finalising.

• READ MORE: Who is Luke Shaw? Inside the life of Manchester United’s flying English full-back

Shaw return comes with Patrick Dorgu’s arrival imminent

Shaw’s return has come on the day that Dorgu is expected to jet into Manchester – adding some potential competition for Dorgu. However, it is not surprising timing considering the injury record of Shaw which was excellent the one season that a left-back was signed – Tyrell Malacia in 2022/23.

Luke Shaw’s injury history over the past five years for United and England

However, in the three games under Amorim, Shaw was utilised exclusively as a left-sided centre-back which could mean his return has little effect on Dorgu.

Instead, Shaw could be competing with expected United signing Ayden Heaven to be the backup option to Lisandro Martinez.

Shaw’s return is likely to be short-lived, but 2025 is likely the year he is sold regardless of the terms and so hopefully he can stay fit and enjoy a happy end to his United career which has lasted almost 11 years.